Source: Fox News
Summary
The White House will appoint Katie Zacharia as press secretary, replacing Karoline Leavitt, who left in August. Zacharia, an attorney and commentator, will hold her first briefing on Tuesday. Trump praised her on Truth Social, calling her a “fantastic job.” Zacharia previously worked for the Department of Homeland Security and Trump Media & Technology Group. She will address the press on Columbus Day, promoting a new diesel deal with Russia. Leavitt has joined Fox News as a contributor.
Our Reading
As expected, the matter has reached another stage.
Zacharia steps into the role after a long stretch without a permanent press secretary.
Trump announces her appointment with a post on Truth Social.
She speaks of delivering solutions and promoting a diesel deal.
Another press secretary, another routine, another familiar name.
Author: Evan Null
White House Press Secretary Transition
The White House is set to end a weeks-long stretch without a permanent press secretary at the podium Tuesday when Katie Zacharia makes her briefing room debut. This follows Karoline Leavitt’s departure from the White House in August. Zacharia, an attorney and television commentator, served as senior communications adviser to Trump Media & Technology Group, which operates the president’s social media platform, Truth Social. Her appointment comes after a shake-up in President Donald Trump’s communications team.
Trump’s Announcement
Trump announced Zacharia’s appointment on Truth Social, saying, “I am pleased to announce that Katie Zacharia will be beginning her term as Press Secretary tomorrow, Columbus Day, and will be doing an introductory News Conference on Tuesday at 9:30 A.M. from the Press Briefing Room in the White House. Katie has been with me, in spirit, from the very beginning, and will do a fantastic job!” This statement highlights the personal connection Trump feels with his new press secretary.
Previous Roles and Experience
Zacharia previously served as deputy assistant secretary for public affairs and a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security. She also appeared on “Fox & Friends Weekend” on Saturday in her new role, touting President Donald Trump’s newly announced deal with Russia to supply more than 1.8 million tons of diesel fuel to U.S. and global markets. This deal aims to lower fuel and grocery costs, according to Zacharia.
Leavitt’s Departure and Successor
Leavitt served as the first press secretary of Trump’s second administration for 19 months before leaving the role on Aug. 27. Since her departure, the White House has held a limited number of press briefings and news conferences led by senior administration officials, including Vice President JD Vance and Attorney General Todd Blanche. The White House adopted a rotating lineup of top Trump administration officials to lead press briefings while Leavitt was on maternity leave over the summer.
Reactions and Expectations
Sean Spicer, former Trump press secretary, praised Zacharia, saying, “Katie has been an effective champion of MAGA movement and America First policies – and most importantly clearly has [the] trust of President Trump.” He also noted that she is a “genuinely kind person who will work well with the press corps,” in contrast to his own time as press secretary. Zacharia acknowledged the expectations that come with succeeding Leavitt, stating, “Following the fabulous Karoline Leavitt is a high standard, and one worth meeting.”
